If AirDrop occasionally stops working, restarting the iPhone or iPad should not necessarily be the first troubleshooting step. In many cases, the problem can be resolved by adjusting the AirDrop settings or bringing the two devices closer together.
A good first step is to temporarily change the AirDrop receiving setting to:
Settings → General → AirDrop → Everyone for 10 Minutes
This makes the device discoverable to nearby Apple devices and can resolve situations where the receiving device is not being detected because of its current AirDrop visibility setting.
Also, bring the two devices close together and make sure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on both devices. AirDrop relies on these wireless technologies to establish the connection, so physical proximity can sometimes make the difference.
If Wi-Fi connectivity is unavailable or unreliable, check whether Use Cellular Data is enabled under the AirDrop settings. This allows AirDrop to use cellular data where supported, rather than requiring a usable Wi-Fi network for the transfer.
Therefore, before restarting the devices every time AirDrop fails, try the following:
- Set AirDrop → Everyone for 10 Minutes.
- Bring the sending and receiving devices closer together.
- Ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on on both devices.
- If Wi-Fi is unavailable, enable Use Cellular Data where the option is available.
- Keep the devices unlocked and awake while initiating the transfer.
- Only if these steps fail should you consider restarting the devices as a troubleshooting measure.
AirDrop failures are often caused by discoverability, wireless connectivity, device proximity, or temporary communication issues, and a restart is not always necessary.
